Police have condemned the throwing of petrol bombs and fireworks at officers attending a security alert.

A number of homes were evacuated in Derry on Sunday afternoon following the alert.

Army bomb disposal experts were called to an area near the Lecky Road flyover in the city's Bogside.

A suspect device was found but it was later declared a hoax and shortly before 5pm residents were allowed to return home.

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PSNI Chief Inspector Alan Hutton thanked local residents for their co-operation but criticised a small group of people who threw missiles at police.

"The suspect device has been declared a hoax by ammunition technical officers," said Chief Inspector Hutton.

"I would like to thank residents in the area and members of the public for their continued patience while we worked to keep everyone safe.

"However, I would strongly condemn the actions of a small group of people who threw missiles, including petrol bombs and fireworks, at officers whose only motivation is to protect the community they serve.

"This small minority of individuals showed a complete disregard for their area, and the community who live there, by attacking police this afternoon.

"Their actions serve no purpose other than to cause harm to our community and lead to criminal convictions for young people.

"Thankfully no one was injured and despite these incidents police will continue to provide the dedicated service to the local community."